10 Best Headphone Amp/DAC Combo Under $200 In 2020
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Over the years, there have been massive changes in the means through which we get and play our music. Of course, the advent of headphones and other wireless devices has also played a significant role in these changes. To get quality sound nowadays, there is a need to consider some of the major components of the device that we are using. Some of the components that contribute to sound quality are headphone amps and DACs. So, what are these components and how do they benefit the user
Headphone amp and DAC
An amp is simply a form of amplifier that has been specifically designed to increase the low-voltage sound signal that it is receiving from a particular device, such as smartphones, PC and so on. This amplifier will transduce or convert the signal received into sound waves by the speakers inside the headphones.
DAC, on the other hand, usually comes with modern amps. Notably, the term DAC refers to a digital-to-analog converter. Hence, the job of this component is the conversion of digital audio data into a low-voltage sound signal that can be boosted by the amplifier. A DAC plays a pivotal role in ensuring that users can hear sound through their headphones when they are connected to tablets, smartphones, PCs, iPods and so on.
Notably, smartphones, turntables, and PCs usually come with a built-in headphone amp and DAC. So, you may wonder why you need to have an extra amp and DAC combo. Well, the basic reason for the additional amp and DAC combo is to get a significant boost in the audio quality. With the best headphone amp/DAC combo you get a better sound that will improve your experience as you listen to music, play games, watch movies or perform other activities.
Another benefit that the users can gain from using amp/DAC combo is that they are often made with exceptional customization options. Hence, they are the perfect devices for control freaks that want to fine-tune sounds to their particular preferences. Frequency levels and sound knobs are just a few of the things you can adjust to personalize the audio experience of whatever you are listening to.
Similarly, you may want to consider getting headphone amp/DAC if you are looking for a way to utilize different systems. This is because this modern device often comes with an excellent USB connection; hence, you can connect them with various devices that you want. Also, the headphone amp-and-DAC combo is quite portable; hence, it is usually easy for anyone to carry it from one place to another.
10 Best Headphone Amp/DAC Combo
If you are looking for an amp/DAC combo in 2020, here are the best ones that do not cost as much as $200.
#1 FiiO Alpen 2 E17k
Specs
| Frequency response | 20 Hz ~ 20 kHz |
| Crosstalk | ＞75 dB (1 kHz) |
| Output power | 200 mW (32 Ω/THD<1%) |
| Signal to noise ratio | ＞113 dB |
| Connection | Micro USB port; USB port; coaxial digital input port; Dual function line in/line out ports |
| Total harmonic distortion | Amp < 0.001% @ 10 mW, DAC < 0.007% @ 10 mW |
| Max output current | > 115 mA |
| Max output voltage | ＞7.8 Vp-p |
| Battery capacity and life | 1500 mAh; Up to 15 hours, approximately 3.5 hours recharge time |
| Headphone output | 3.5 mm stereo jack |
| Output impedance | ＜ 1.1 Ω |
| Weight | Less than 0.5 pounds |
| Dimensions | 4.1 x 2.4 x 0.47 in |
Details of the product
This headphone amp/DAC combo is a special device that serves as the best in the edition of the well-known FiiO E17 DAC and headphone amplifier. The FiiO Alpen 2 E17k ensures that you get the better detail in any sound you are listening through the presence of lower distortion, awesome conversion features, and top-notch S/N ratio. When you are using this product, you are guaranteed high-quality industrial design and exceptional performance at a relatively affordable cost. When compared to all the amp/DAC combos in the same series that came before it, this device wins easily.
As shown in the specs above, this product comes with several excellent features that will make you enjoy every bit of sound that you are listening to. Similarly, it has a headphone output with a 3.5mm stereo jack. It also has a micro USB port, dual-function line in/out ports, coaxial digital input port, and screen protectors. When using it, you can adjust the bass and control the volume through a digital means. On top of these amazing features, The FiiO Alpen 2 E17k has a 1,500 mAh battery that can last you for as much as 15 hours. The full charging of this device only takes about 3.5 hours. Additional items you will get with this product include a USB capable, coaxial input adapter cable, and cloth carrying pouch that protects the device.
Pros
- It has numerous excellent features that will make sure that you enjoy using it
- It produces high-quality sound
- It has a great design that makes it one of the most beautiful amp/DAC combos
- It boasts of having a long-lasting battery life; hence, there is no need to charge it every time
- It offers several additional tools that are lacking in many other devices of its kind
Cons
- The bass is average
- Instruments don’t sound as great as you will get in some other device
#2 Audioengine D3 DAC/amp
Specs
| DAC | AK4396 DAC |
| Frequency response | 10 Hz–25 kHz +/- 0.5 dB |
| Crosstalk | -110 dB |
| THD+N | <0.002% |
| Signal to noise ratio | 110 dB |
| Connection | USB input |
| Full-scale output | 2.0 Vrms |
| Power requirement | USB 5 V DC, 200 mA |
| Material | Metal injection-molded aluminum case |
| Headphone impedance | 12 ohms – 10 k-ohms |
| Output impedance | 2 ohms |
| Weight | Less than 0.5 pounds |
| Dimensions | 2.56 x 0.79 x 0.39 in |
Details of the product
Audioengine D3 DAC/amp is another powerful, reliable headphone amp/DAC combo that is made of premium materials. Powered by a USB, this device is quite portable, so it can fit rightly into your pocket without bugging unnecessarily. When connected to your PC, this product has the ability to bypass the sound card of your PC so that a high-quality processing system is utilized for producing sound. The built-in AK4396 DAC chip allows this headphone amp/DAC combo to be able to work with 192-kHz/24-bit. The device also has a computer OS volume control that makes sure that you can customize the volume to suit your preferences. Furthermore, it works with the TI 1020B USB controller.
The package of this product normally comes with a carrying case that eases the process of taking this device with you anywhere you go. Also, you will get a setup guide that is aimed at making it easy for you to start using it. Finally, a 1/4 inch (6.3mm) adapter cable is also included to make the connection to your devices seamless and fast.
Pros
- It produces sound with great depth, clarity, and detail
- It is durable
- It is very portable; hence, easy to carry everywhere
Cons
- It may be heating after using it for a long period
- Although it is compatible with OS X and Windows, it performs poorly when connected to Android devices
#3 Creative Sound Blaster E5
Spec
| Audio Technology | SB-Axx1™ |
| Audio Fidelity | Up to 24-bit / 192kHz |
| Connectivity Options | microUSB; 1 x Type-A USB Port |
| Signal to noise ratio | 120dB (DAC) |
| Connectivity | USB 2.0, Bluetooth, USB 3.0 |
| Max Channel Output | Stereo |
| Microphone Type | Built-in Mic that has an auto-orientation sensor. This works in both Landscape and Portrait modes |
| Headphone Out | 2 x 3.5mm jacks |
| Line / Optical Out | 3.5mm jack |
| Supported Operating Systems | Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows Vista, Mac OS X v10.6.8 and above, Windows 8.1, Windows 10 |
| Weight | Less than 0.5 pounds |
| Dimensions | 4.3″ x 2.9″ x 0.9″ |
Details of the product
Known as a multipurpose sound device, Creative Sound Blaster E5 nicely combines repertoire with seamless digital decoding to deliver outstanding sound quality. Despite being a low-priced device, it comes with a beautiful strong alloy component that spots a wonderful matte finish. The base of the product is made of rubber, which ensures that the product stays firmly on the desk or other surfaces that you place it.
This device provides 24 bit/192kHz output that is entirely free of jitter. However, for any connection done through USB, the sound output will only be 24/96 kHz. Along with other astonishing features of this product, you will get a micro-USB cable for connecting with other devices. Also, its package has desk stand, mini TOSLINK cable as well as two elastic bands.
Pros
- Its 24bit/192kHz output is seamless and nice
- It boasts of having an integrated headphone amplifier
- It allows Bluetooth wireless streaming
- It is quite affordable
Cons
- Despite its sturdy signal-to-noise ratio, you may still notice some forms of sound coloration
- The build of this product is relatively poor, especially when compared to the other products on this list
- It features two 3.5mm out-ports that are not capable of providing enough flexibility when it comes to headphone options.
- The integrated microphone is average at best.
#4 Denon DA-10 Portable USB DAC
| Frequency Response | 2 to 50,000 Hz (-3 dB) |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | 108 dB (volume max, 2V) |
| Gain Control | Normal/High |
| DAC | 32 bit at 192 kHz |
| Connectivity | 1x iPod/iPhone cable port; 1x USB Micro B for charging/ connecting to a computer; 1x stereo balanced 1/8″ aux input |
| USB Input | Micro USB-B |
| Weight | 0.53 lb |
| Dimensions | 2.52 x 1.14 x 5.47″ |
| Headphone Output | Yes |
| Processing | Advanced AL 32 processing |
| Analog I/O | Yes |
| Total Harmonic Distortion | 0.0003% (1 kHz audible range) |
Details of the product
Denon DA-10 Portable USB DAC is a budget-friendly amp/DAC combo that offers solid performance that can be compared to top-quality, pricey audiophile devices. It is a compact device that features a rechargeable that you can use for listening to music for as long as 7 hours. Although this device does not seem to be suitable for the pocket, it is portable enough to be kept inside a small back that you take along with you anywhere you go.
The connection of this product to your computer can be done through Micro USB-B. Notably, you can utilize the Lightning to USB adapter at its back for connection to your iOS device. If you want to bypass the DAC, you can easily make use of the 3.55mm input of Denon DA-10 Portable USB DAC.
Through the assistance of the low signal to noise ratio of this product, you can enjoy the full dynamics of any music without experiencing any unwanted distortion.
Pros
- It has 2 Hz – 50kHz frequency range, which contributes to the quality of sound you will get
- It features a rechargeable battery that can last for up to 7 hours. So, you don’t need to charge this device constantly
- It delivers 32bit/192kHz output, which is smooth
Cons
- It is slightly bulky when compared to most other headphone amps/DAC combos on this list.
- To connect to Windows computers, you have to download some specific drivers
- It does not have the ability to switch from one source to another automatically
#5 Cambridge Audio DACMagic 100
Specs
| DAC | Wolfson WM8742 24-bit DAC |
| Frequency response | 20Hz to 20kHz (±0.1dB) |
| Output impedance | <50ohms |
| Signal to noise ratio | -113dBr |
| Crosstalk @1KHZ | < -130dB |
| Digital input word widths supported | 16-24bit |
| Maximum power consumption | 5W |
| Weight | 1.1 lbs. |
| Dimensions | 106 x 46 x 130mm (4.1 x 1.8 x 5.1″) |
| Color | Black and silver |
Details of the product
Cambridge Audio DACMagic 100 is powered by Wolfson WM8742 24-bit DAC, which makes it possible for your speaker setup to produce premium digital content. It features a wide range of in/out ports, TOSLINK optical port, digital coax ports, and USB. These connection options allow this device to be compatible with a lot of devices.
With a frequency range of 20 to 20kHz, you are guaranteed sound frequencies that are more than you can ever need. While this product is a basic amp/DAC combo device, it provides enough that you need to enjoy a wide range of activities.
Pros
- It provides a natural frequency response that is not beyond what human ears can process
- It comprises several speaker inputs
- It provides incoming sample rate display for better visibility
Cons
- Its audio bitrate is quite low when compared to most other amp/DAC combo devices on this list.
- Whenever you switch the device on again, the input selector will reset itself. This means that you have to set the selector over and over again.
#6 Audioengine D1
Specs
| DAC Type | Dual-mode USB and Optical (SPDIF) |
| D/A Converter | AKM4396 |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | >110dB |
| Frequency Response | 10 Hz to 25 kHz +/- 0.5 dB |
| Crosstalk | <-85dB |
| Inputs | USB; Optical (SPDIF) |
| Outputs | RCA stereo; 3.5 mm headphone |
| Power Requirements | 200 mA |
| Power Source | USB 5V |
| Output Impedance | 47 ohms RCA; 10 ohms headphone |
| Weight | Less 1 lb |
| Dimensions | 3.5 x 4 x 1″ |
Details of the products
If you are looking for a low-priced amp/DAC combo that provides you with fantastic value, don’t look beyond Audioengine D1. Like many other audio devices from Audioengine, D1 also delivers top-quality sound. It is a feature-packed device that functions in the form of USB DAC. You only have to plug it directly into your device and still enjoying its benefits.
Let’s talk about its body. This product is made with a powerful, beautiful metal casing. The front and rare of this device is made with rubber. With the help of its simple yet functional interface, you don’t need any technical know-how or experience to start utilizing this product. The body of this product is filled with a headphone jack, a volume knob, USB, one RCA output, optical S/PDIF input as well as power button.
The high signal-to-noise ratio of 110dB of this headphone amp/DAC combo produces distinctive and audible sound and reduces any forms of digital distortion that are associated with some other devices. Other amazing features that you look forward to the device include an array of connection options and low 10-ohm output impedance. Although there are other products from Audioengine that are better than D1, most of them come at higher prices.
Pros
- It offers a small footprint
- It is relatively cheap
- It comes with an integrated headphone amplifier that boosts the quality of sound
Cons
- Its tonal balance is average; hence, it needs some improvement
- It lacks 1/4 inch headphone output
- It features high impedance, which tends to restrict headphone selections
#7 Micca OriGen G2 amp and DAC
Specs
| Amplifier | JRC NJM4556 operational amplifier |
| D/A Converter | Wolfson WM8740 Stereo D/A Converter |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | >108dB |
| PCM audio | 24-bit/192kHz |
| Compatibility | Windows XP/7/8/8.1/10, Android, and MAC OSX |
| Output Impedance | 0.5 Ohm |
| Weight | Less 1 lb |
| Dimensions | 4.6 x 2 x 1.9 inches |
Details of the product
Micca OriGen G2 amp and DAC is a well-constructed amp/DAC combo that has studio master-grade digital audio playback. This device is capable of supporting high-resolution PCM audio of as much as 24-bit/192kHz. It features a stereo analog line-level as well as optical S/PID digital output. Besides, this product comprises a sturdy integrated headphone amp that can power 16 to 600 Ω.
It is also worthwhile to note that this product supports WASAPI and ASIO Push/Event output modes through the assistance of its sophisticated audio stream interface. Another special thing about this headphone amp/DAC combo is that it guarantees unparalleled versatility since you can use it with a wide range of headphones.
Pros
- The volume control looks and feels great. It also ensures that the device is quite easy to control
- It is compatible with many devices
- It is low-priced
- Its connectivity is flexible since it allows optical or USB output
Cons
- The USB drivers that work for Windows 10 are quite poor
#8 Massdrop O2 + SDAC DAC/AMP
Specs
| D/A Converter | AKM AK4452 |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz–20 kHz; +/-0.02 dB |
| Crosstalk | -102 dB |
| Inputs | USB micro |
| Outputs | RCA stereo |
| Maximum output | 2.15VRMS |
| Output Impedance | 0.54 ohms |
| Weight | 0.58 pounds |
| Dimensions | 4.12 x 3.87 x 1.12 in |
Details of the product
Massdrop O2+SDAC DAC/AMP combines two exceptional tools in a single product. This product is made of the popular Massdrop Objective 02 and the Massdrop x Grace Design Standard DAC. As a result of this special combination, this product is an affordable yet sturdy package that produces solid sound quality.
Since this product has been designed to take care of the needs of audiophiles, it offers high performance that will beat the measurements of the well-known ODAC. Apart from its awesome performance, the build of this device is another factor that has continued to make many audiophiles to fall in love with it. If you take a look at the back of this amp/DAC combo, you will note a set of RCA jacks that has signs depicting the output and input.
The package of this device contains a 3.3ft Micro-USB to USB cable, which improves connectivity. In summary, this product is one of the best you can get if you are looking for a premium product that has both amp and DAC but does not cost you an arm and a leg.
Pros
- It is an affordable product with exceptional features
- It has proven to be one of the best for boosting sound quality
- It comes with the standard 1-year warranty that the manufacturer usually offers for its products
Cons
- The amplifier sometimes gets clipped in the signal stage. This is because of the positioning of the volume pot around the circuit between the output stage and the signal stage.
#9 NUForce uDAC-3 DAC/AMP Combo
Specs
| Signal-to-noise ratio | 98 dB |
| Dynamic range | 90 dB |
| Power source | USB powered, 80 mA / 5 V |
| Headphone output | 80 mW x 2 at 16 Ohm |
| Digital output | Coaxial RCA 75 ohm |
| Native bit rate | 32, 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96 kHz, 24-bit |
| Input | USB 1.1, 2.0 compatible |
| Dimensions | 2.7 x 1.5 x 0.8 in |
Details of the products
The main purpose of this amp/DAC combo is to assist you to improve the sound output of your computer. This device is strong enough to be used in a noisy environment. Due to its good features, it has been used constantly by gamers, audiophiles, musicians, DJs and other people that want to get great good sound quality while performing various activities.
Despite the amazing benefits of this product, it is not bulky. In fact, you can fit this NUForce uDAC-3 DAC/AMP Combo in your pocket with ease. Notably, the circuitry of this device is analog. Also, its signal path does not have any capacitor; therefore, it can maintain some levels of clarity while the sound signal is being converted. Similarly, the product relies on the asynchronous USB connection to lower disturbing interference and all sorts of jitter. Along with the nice features of this product, you will also get a 39.1 inch USB cable. Learn more about this product here.
Pros
- It is a light-weight product that is portable and easy to use
- It is easy to set up
- It is an affordable product that improves computer audio
Cons
- The headphones are low quality
- The audio quality is average
#10 CEntrance DACport Slim – Massdrop Exclusive
Specs
| DAC | AKM AK4490 |
| Max output power | 450 mW |
| Resolution support | 16 and 24 bit |
| Frequency response | 20 Hz–40 kHz |
| Dynamic range | 109 dB |
| Compatibility | Mac, Linux, and PC |
| Output impedance | 1 ohm |
| Weight | Less than 1 pounds |
| Dimensions | 3 x 1.1 x 0.4 in |
| Connection | Asynchronous USB connection |
Details of the product
CEntrance DACport Slim is another elegant, high-performing amp/DAC combo that has been delivering top-notch sound quality over the past few years. It is equipped with an aesthetic aluminum casing that can last you for a long period. This product has the AKM AK4490 chip, which goes a long way in helping it to boost the quality of sound that you are listening to. Just like many other products of its kind, this device can play any audio file from 16-bit/44.1 kHz to 24-bit/192 kHz. This shows that CEntrance DACport Slim is a versatile amp/DAC combo that everyone can rely on.
What’s more, CEntrance DACport Slim can add more value to any music files that you are playing. All thanks to the total harmonic distortion of 0.003% and a dynamic range of 109 dB. Moreover, it has a 3.5mm jack that is capable of dealing with the functioning of the headphones and line-out roles. See the review of this product.
Pros
- It delivers quality sound
- It is small
- It features excellent physical volume control
Cons
- It lacks DSD support
Conclusion
In a nutshell, if you need a good amp/DAC combo that has great features but does not cost you a fortune. The 10 best products that fall into this category have been mentioned above. However, you must understand that these products have some drawbacks, but this is not unexpected when you consider their prices.
Out of the lots mentioned above, FiiO Alpen 2 E17k seems to be the perfect amp/DAC combo. Not only does this product deliver great performance but it also comes at a cheap price that you can hardly find in other products. It also comes with great features and excellent design that will make it possible for you to use it anywhere you find yourself.
